Insurance Blog
Construction Site Theft Is on the Rise: 5 Tips to Protect Your Business
Construction sites can look like a payday to would-be thieves. Here's how to protect your business.
Posted on 29 January 2026 | 4:00 pm
Weird Life Insurance Questions You Were Too Afraid to Ask
Life insurance, by its very nature, is deeply personal. It transforms the vulnerable into the secure.
It can also leave you wondering – how does that all work, anyway?
Keep reading for answers to a few curious and common life insurance questions you’ve probably wondered about…but were too afraid to ask.
Q: I Have a Dangerous Hobby. Can I Still Get Life Insurance?
A: In many cases, yes – but expect to answer some questions and (probably) pay a little extra to account for the additional risk.
Before giving you a quote, your local insurance agent may ask you to fill out a written questionnaire to understand more about your hobby.
At ERIE, that includes hobbies such as:
- Rock climbing
- Vehicle racing (stock cars, drag racing, motorcycles, etc.)
- Aviation
- Sky diving
- Scuba diving
The questionnaire may ask for details like:
- How long you’ve participated in the hobby
- How frequently you engage in it
- Any training, certifications, or safety education
- If you ever get paid or hired for your hobby (as opposed to just doing it for fun)
- Future goals related to the hobby
It’s important to be honest when completing the form. Misrepresenting your activities could lead to a denied claim later on.
Once submitted, your responses go to the life insurance underwriter, who evaluates the risk and helps determine your premium.
For example: Let’s say you’re into rock climbing. Does that mean you climb indoors with friends once in a while at the local gym? Or are you planning a trip to the Himalayas to go ice climbing alone? Similarly, if you have a private pilot license – are you taking occasional short trips for business? Or are you regularly stunt flying in air shows on the weekends?
You get the idea… it’s all about calculating that risk.
Q: If I Quit Smoking, Can I Get Re-Rated to Save Money on Life Insurance?
A: First things first: Good for you!
As for your policy, yes, in most cases, you can ask your local agent to re-rate your existing life insurance.
But before that happens, you’ll likely need to demonstrate a consistent lifestyle change for at least one to two years.
Depending on your situation, the outcome may vary:
- If you quit smoking as part of a healthier lifestyle — and there are no complications — you may be eligible to move from the “smoker” to “non-smoker” rate classification. This typically results in lower life insurance premiums.
- However, if you quit due to a medical condition (e.g., COPD or lung cancer), that health factor may still influence your rate.
In either case, your agent will likely ask you to complete a questionnaire explaining when, why, and how you quit.
Q: What if I Lose 50 Pounds? Could I Get Re-Rated Then?
A: Similar to the example of smoking, the insurer will want more context about your weight loss.
Questions you might be asked include:
- How and why did you lose the weight?
- Was it through surgery (gastric bypass, lap band)?
- Was it unintentional or related to a medical condition or medication change?
If your weight loss is the result of healthy lifestyle choices — like diet and exercise — and you’ve maintained it over time, you may qualify for a better rate class.
That said, most insurance carriers will assume some weight will return. So, when re-rating, they typically add back about 50% of the lost weight to account for that possibility.
Why? Statistically, significant weight loss often comes with some rebound, which affects long-term risk predictions.
Be sure to ask your ERIE agent about re-rating your life insurance policy when your health improves or lifestyle changes.
Talk to a Local ERIE Agent for a Life Insurance Quote
Have a weird or embarrassing insurance question? Don’t be shy: Our local agents are licensed professionals – they’re not here to judge.
Find a local ERIE agent near you to get the conversation started, or request a life insurance quote online.
Posted on 22 January 2026 | 4:00 pm
Weird Life Insurance Questions You Were Too Afraid to Ask
Life insurance, by its very nature, is deeply personal. It transforms the vulnerable into the secure.
It can also leave you wondering – how does that all work, anyway?
Keep reading for answers to a few curious and common life insurance questions you’ve probably wondered about…but were too afraid to ask.
Q: I Have a Dangerous Hobby. Can I Still Get Life Insurance?
A: In many cases, yes – but expect to answer some questions and (probably) pay a little extra to account for the additional risk.
Before giving you a quote, your local insurance agent may ask you to fill out a written questionnaire to understand more about your hobby.
At ERIE, that includes hobbies such as:
- Rock climbing
- Vehicle racing (stock cars, drag racing, motorcycles, etc.)
- Aviation
- Sky diving
- Scuba diving
The questionnaire may ask for details like:
- How long you’ve participated in the hobby
- How frequently you engage in it
- Any training, certifications, or safety education
- If you ever get paid or hired for your hobby (as opposed to just doing it for fun)
- Future goals related to the hobby
It’s important to be honest when completing the form. Misrepresenting your activities could lead to a denied claim later on.
Once submitted, your responses go to the life insurance underwriter, who evaluates the risk and helps determine your premium.
For example: Let’s say you’re into rock climbing. Does that mean you climb indoors with friends once in a while at the local gym? Or are you planning a trip to the Himalayas to go ice climbing alone? Similarly, if you have a private pilot license – are you taking occasional short trips for business? Or are you regularly stunt flying in air shows on the weekends?
You get the idea… it’s all about calculating that risk.
Q: If I Quit Smoking, Can I Get Re-Rated to Save Money on Life Insurance?
A: First things first: Good for you!
As for your policy, yes, in most cases, you can ask your local agent to re-rate your existing life insurance.
But before that happens, you’ll likely need to demonstrate a consistent lifestyle change for at least one to two years.
Depending on your situation, the outcome may vary:
- If you quit smoking as part of a healthier lifestyle — and there are no complications — you may be eligible to move from the “smoker” to “non-smoker” rate classification. This typically results in lower life insurance premiums.
- However, if you quit due to a medical condition (e.g., COPD or lung cancer), that health factor may still influence your rate.
In either case, your agent will likely ask you to complete a questionnaire explaining when, why, and how you quit.
Q: What if I Lose 50 Pounds? Could I Get Re-Rated Then?
A: Similar to the example of smoking, the insurer will want more context about your weight loss.
Questions you might be asked include:
- How and why did you lose the weight?
- Was it through surgery (gastric bypass, lap band)?
- Was it unintentional or related to a medical condition or medication change?
If your weight loss is the result of healthy lifestyle choices — like diet and exercise — and you’ve maintained it over time, you may qualify for a better rate class.
That said, most insurance carriers will assume some weight will return. So, when re-rating, they typically add back about 50% of the lost weight to account for that possibility.
Why? Statistically, significant weight loss often comes with some rebound, which affects long-term risk predictions.
Be sure to ask your ERIE agent about re-rating your life insurance policy when your health improves or lifestyle changes.
Talk to a Local ERIE Agent for a Life Insurance Quote
Have a weird or embarrassing insurance question? Don’t be shy: Our local agents are licensed professionals – they’re not here to judge.
Find a local ERIE agent near you to get the conversation started, or request a life insurance quote online.
Posted on 22 January 2026 | 4:00 pm
What’s a Coverage Review (And Why Do I Need One?)
Life changes fast. And insurance policies don’t always automatically keep up.
A new car, a renovated kitchen or a growing family could leave you underinsured without you realizing it.
A coverage review offers you and your ERIE agent the chance to assess any life changes that could affect your insurance needs. This information you discuss can be used to update your current policies, and your agent can recommend additional coverages you may want to consider.
A coverage review is a good opportunity to ask questions and understand what your policies can (and can’t) cover. Your agent can also share real-life claims examples they’ve seen in your local area to help you avoid potentially costly coverage gaps.
Your agent may schedule an in-person meeting or ask you to provide information over the phone or email. Of course, you don’t need to wait for your agent to schedule a coverage review. You can also request one yourself. Just call, email or text your agent to get in touch.
When you’re ready to review your policies, you can download our free printable checklist to know what to discuss with your agent.
What information will my agent ask for during a coverage review?
During a coverage review, your agent will want to know about any life changes since you last connected. This may include:
- Personal information: Make sure your agent has current information for you and your family. This includes your mailing address, phone number, email address and all the members of your household. Be sure to let them know of any name changes due to marriage or divorce, or if you’ve had a child since you last spoke, as this may lead to a change in your policy beneficiaries. Having the correct information on file ensures there aren’t any delays in the event of a claim.
- Covered drivers: When updating your auto insurance, your agent will need to know if there are any changes to the drivers covered under your policy. This could be a child that’s about to get their driver's license or someone who’s living with you and regularly using your vehicle. If you’re considering a new vehicle, your agent can also provide a free quote.
- Home updates: Have you upgraded your kitchen, transformed your bonus room or finished your basement? Major improvements like these increase the value of your home, which means you may need a higher limit on your homeowners policy. Without changing your limits, you may be left with a coverage gap that could leave you underinsured if you need to repair or rebuild your home if the unexpected happens. Ask your agent how guaranteed replacement cost can provide peace of mind.*
- New purchases: While some “toys,” such as an, all-terrain vehicle (ATV) or golf cart, are insured in your auto policy, you may want a separate insurance policy if you purchase a boat. Insurance might not be required for watercraft and off-road vehicles, but these still represent a significant investment that should be protected. The same holds true with valuables such as musical instruments or jewelry. Sending a copy of your updated home inventory to your agent will help them determine if you need to purchase personal valuables insurance.
- Job changes: Let your agent know if there have been any changes with your employment. For example, if you’ve retired or are now working from home, the miles you save on your daily commute may result in a lower auto insurance rate. And if you recently earned a promotion, it may be time to review your life insurance policy to ensure you’ve got enough coverage — beyond what may be offered by your employer.
Can my agent help lower my insurance bill?
Everyone likes saving money, right? Talk to your ERIE agent – they’ll work with you to ensure you’re getting the best price possible for the coverage you need.
Read more about available insurance discounts from ERIE or check out this list of ways you can save:
- Safe driving discount: If you’re a safe driver with a good driving record, you could get a discount on your auto coverage. And in select states, ERIE’s free driving safety app, YourTurn® can help you earn rewards for safe driving.**
- Car safety equipment discounts: You can save on your insurance coverage if your car is equipped with safety equipment like factory-installed air bags, passive restraint3 4, anti-theft devices and anti-lock brakes.
- Multi-car discount3 4: If ERIE insures two or more of your vehicles, you could qualify for a discount. (All the vehicles in your household must be owned and used by the drivers we insure on the policy.)
- Multi-policy discount: A discount is available if you have a qualifying life insurance policy1 or home policy in addition to your ERIE auto insurance. Reduced usage discount: If you’re not using your car for at least 90 consecutive days during the policy period, you could be eligible for a discount on your car insurance.3
- Young drivers: Unmarried drivers under age 21 who reside with their parents may be eligible for additional savings on their car insurance.3
- Annual payment plan: You can save by paying your auto premium annually.
- Changing your deductible: Generally, you can lower your insurance premium by raising your deductible. But if you’d prefer to reduce your out-of-pocket expenses in the event of a claim, our diminishing deductible is available with the Erie Auto Plus endorsement. Your deductible diminishes2 for every year you do not have a claim.
Get customized advice from an insurance expert
At ERIE, we know every customer's circumstance is different. That’s why we never work from a one-size-fits-all formula. Your ERIE agent will listen to you carefully and offer tailor-made solutions for your situation and your budget. Best of all — you’ll get outstanding coverage, great rates and service from local people who care. To learn more, contact your local ERIE agent or start a free online auto quote.
* “You” must notify “us” or “our” Agent within 90 days of starting any improvements or additions which increase the “replacement cost” value of “your” Dwelling by $5,000 or more and pay any additional premium due. “Your” premium may be adjusted during the current policy period to reflect the additional amount of insurance. If “you” do not notify “us,” “we” do not cover loss to such improvements or changes.
** YourTurn® Program is not available in all states. Not available in KY, DC, NY, NC. Rewards vary by state, age and driving behavior and range from $2.5- $15 every two weeks based on driving 50 tracked miles and the participating driver’s score during the scoring period. Must drive a minimum of 50 tracked miles during each two-week reward period. Standard text messaging rates apply. Must have a compatible smartphone device with a data plan subscription and GPS capabilities and Vehicle covered under eligible auto policy is used exclusively by the participating driver.
Posted on 14 January 2026 | 4:00 pm
Even Santa Claus Needs Insurance
Ever wondered about Santa’s insurance? Explore the auto, home, and business coverages he relies on and why even the man in red needs insurance.
Posted on 25 December 2025 | 4:00 pm
